Explore Riga

Discover what to see/do in Riga

About Riga

EENA has chosen the beautiful historic city of Riga to host our 2026 Conference and Exhibition.

Riga, the vibrant capital of Latvia, embodies a rich tapestry of history, contemporary life, and gastronomic pleasures. Wander through UNESCO-acclaimed Old Town, where medieval allure blends with modern architecture, explore Riga’s diverse culinary landscape showcasing both local traditions and global influences. Admire the city’s iconic Art Nouveau architecture, which surrounds its streets with an exquisite combination of mystique and elegance. Whether savoring local cuisine or admiring architectural wonders, Riga offers an unforgettable experience.

Things to do in Riga range from exploring historic landmarks to immersing yourself in the city’s vibrant local culture. If you’re wondering what to do during your stay, begin with some of the top Riga sightseeing spots. Stroll through the charming Old Town to receive a glimpse into the city’s more than 800-year history. Then head to the elegant Quiet center district, home to magnificent Art Nouveau architecture. Once you’ve done that, explore our list to find more of the most unforgettable things to see in Latvia’s capital.

National Library of Latvia

Mobility in town

Public city bus/tramway

Public transport in Riga is a reliable and convenient way to explore the city. Riga has three main methods of public transportation – tram, trolleybus, and bus – serving locals and visitors alike across the capital.

Public transport schedules

Public transport in Riga operates daily from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM, providing reliable and affordable service throughout the city. Timetables, fare information, and ticket purchase options are available in both Latvian and English at www.rigassatiksme.lv. (Please note: Due to frequent cyber-attacks, the website may be inaccessible from non-EU servers.)

Public transport from Riga Airport

Bus route No. 22, which runs between Riga International Airport and the city centre, is the only route where tickets can also be purchased directly from the driver. Payment is accepted by bank card only, and the ticket price is €1.81.

Alternatively, passengers can use other types of Riga public transport tickets, which can be bought in advance at kiosks, ticket machines or through an app.

Public transport tickets

Available ticket types:

A 90-minute ticket – €1.50

Valid for 90 minutes, allowing transfers between any tram, trolleybus, or bus. The ticket must be registered each time you board a new vehicle. The last registration can be made in the 89th minute from the first registration and remains valid until the final stop.

- a 24-hour ticket – €5.00
- a three-day ticket – €8.00
- a five-day ticket – €10.00

Where to buy tickets

Tickets can be purchased at ticket vending machines, Narvesen kiosks, Rīgas satiksme customer service centres, and via the Rīgas Satiksme or Mobilly mobile apps. Please note that on bus route No. 22, tickets can also be purchased directly from the driver using a bank payment card.

Micromobility Transportation

Affordable, safe and sustainable way to get around the city! Learn more about micro mobility options in Riga and choose what suits you best!

There are a lot of recommendations for things to do and see in Riga, but how do you get there if you don’t want to take the bus or walk there? Electric scooters and other types of micromobility are widely available in Riga.

Electric scooters:

The following mobile applications for short-term rental electric scooters are available in the city – “Bolt” and “ATOM Mobility“

Mopeds:

Electric moped rental in Riga is available using these mobile applications – “Ride” and “Skok” (driver’s license required).

Currency

The Euro is the official currency of Latvia. Currency exchange services are readily available in most banks and at currency exchange offices, which can be found in key locations such as train stations, the airport, and near major tourist sites in Riga. Many post offices also offer currency exchange services, ensuring that visitors have convenient access to financial services throughout the city.

Stunning places to visit

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore one of the most beautiful cities in Europe

The Old Town

The Old Town Riga is the oldest part of our capital city, it is a city center, as well as a favorite place for recreation and entertainment for tourists. In 1997, the historical center of Riga was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. For anyone planning their trip, wandering through the Old Town is easily one of the most memorable things to do in Riga.

The Old Town has a unique architecture and most of the buildings have the status of cultural monuments. Various styles are represented in architecture – Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque as well as examples of classicism and modernism. After the restoration of Latvia’s independence, many buildings in the Old Town were reconstructed or rebuilt, thus restoring the historic heritage.

The streets and squares of Old Riga have countless restaurants, cafes and bars for all tastes.

Latvian National Opera and Ballet

Riga White House – Latvian National Opera and Ballet has been operating on Aspazijas Boulevard since 1923. During the season, which runs from September to the end of May, an average of six new performances are staged, maintaining a balance between the opera and ballet genres. In addition, more than 200 performances and several symphonic and chamber music concerts are shown in one season, making it one of the most refined attractions for culture lovers in Riga.

The beginning of the history of Latvian opera can be traced back to 1912 when the Latvian Opera started operating in Riga under the direction of Pāvuls Jurjānis. In the current Opera building, the Latvian National Opera troupe performed its first production on January 23, 1919 – it was Richard Wagner’s opera The Flying Dutchman.

In the 1990s, extensive reconstruction and interior restoration of the Opera House took place, in which the historical interior was strictly followed, stylistically adapting the newly created premises. Finally, construction work was completed in 2001, when a modern outbuilding complex was completed, offering new premises for technical and creative staff and a unique hall with 300 seats to implement wide-profile art projects.

Riga Central Market

The leading market squares were once demolished or rebuilt in many cities worldwide. Guides showing different European metropolises say: “There used to be a market here!” But that is not the story of Riga. Right here, in the middle of the city, next to the Daugava, lies the impressive Riga Central Market – one of the most unique and interesting places to visit in Riga.

Today, the buildings serve as market pavilions and have become an integral feature of Riga. They were initially built in Kurzeme, Vaiņode, as a hangar for German army aircraft – zeppelins. When the Riga Central Market was opened in 1930, it was recognized as the largest, best, and most modern in Europe. At different times throughout different periods of history, it was invariably in the heart of Riga, often called the belly of the city.

In 1997 the market area, forming an integral part of the Old Town, was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Art Nouveau

Art Nouveau is an art style of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The development of Art Nouveau in Riga coincided with a time of unprecedented prosperity in the city’s history. Today, the capital of Latvia is deservedly considered an Art Nouveau mecca, and exploring this district is one of the most visually striking things to see in Riga.

Art Nouveau architecture is mainly concentrated in the city’s quarter, called the “Quiet Center,” which is about a 10-minute walk from the Old Town and is a beautiful feature of history in the face of Riga.

Alberta Street is the pearl of Riga’s Art Nouveau style – full-length, historic “art nouveau” style buildings are located along its entire street. Each of its houses is a unique achievement of construction. Moreover, its construction took place in a relatively short time – from 1901 to 1908. As a result, eight of the homes on Alberta Street have been recognized as architectural monuments of national significance.